Now that you have the consistency for the thickness of paper you want, be sure to remove any and all clumps that you can see. Make your paper-paste as smooth as you can.
If you plan on using your paper for stationary or other writing purposes, you will want to make it ready for ink use. To prevent ink from soaking into your new paper, simply add two teaspoons of liquid starch into your paste mix and stir it well. (more…)
Now that your preparation frame is ready, it’s time to pick out the medium for your paper. Different types of paper will give your finished product different looks, so be sure to select the look you want. For example, envelopes result in high-quality paper, while newspapers typically create gray paper. As long as the paper contains no wax, it should work.
Clean up your paper before you begin.
The Handmade Paper Institute (HPI) of Pune, India was once a glorious testament to the beauty and power of handmade paper. An idea conceived by none other than Mahatma Gandhi, it was meant to serve as a source of both eco-friendly paper as well as employment for the Indian community; and serve it did, exporting 500 varieties of beautiful, elegant handmade papers to at least 75 countries.
But today, the Institute is struggling. (more…)
Making paper can be an enriching, creative hobby for anyone interested in creating their own paper. It’s easy enough for almost anyone to do, and provides a fun activity to use in teaching children about where paper comes from.
Homemade paper makes a very personal, unique addition to your stationary–as well as a beautiful gift. Since it’s acid-free, it’s also great for people who like to do scrapbooking. Results are also typically of high quality, perfect for elegant invitations, thank you cards and announcements. (more…)